The Kano State Government has taken legal action against former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, his wife, Hafsat Umar, and six others, over alleged bribery, misappropriation, and diversion of funds amounting to billions of naira.
The charges, outlined in a document dated April 3, 2024, list eight counts and include a roster of 15 prosecution witnesses.
Among the accused are Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Hafsat Umar, Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, and three companies: Lamash Properties Limited, Safari Textiles Limited, and Lasage General Enterprises Limited.
One of the counts specifies an incident where Ganduje, during his tenure as governor, purportedly solicited and received $200,000 in connection with contracts awarded by the Kano State Government.
This alleged act is deemed official corruption under Section 22 of The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-corruption Commission Law 2008 (as amended), Law No2 of 2009.
Furthermore, the document alleges that Ganduje, on another occasion, accepted a kickback of $213,000 linked to projects under the jurisdiction of the state government.
This action, the charge claims, constitutes another instance of official corruption as defined by Kano State law.
The legal action represents a significant step in the fight against corruption, signaling the government’s commitment to holding public officials accountable for their actions.
The case underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in governance, as well as the determination to uphold the rule of law.
Observers anticipate that the trial will attract widespread attention, both locally and nationally, as it addresses allegations of corruption at the highest levels of government.
The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for anti-corruption efforts across the country.
The defendants are expected to appear in court to answer the charges, with the proceedings likely to draw considerable public interest.
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